Don't Laugh: How do you Wax a Car ?

[gunDriller]

I have a Mercedes that has been garaged most of its life, then parked outdoors enduring the weather for 2 years, though with a tarp to keep the sun off the dash.

It's actually weathered pretty well. The interior of the car still smells like a new car, even though it's an 84 Mercedes diesel (the vintage that biodiesel'ers like).

Perfect interior, basically. The engine has a little problem.


But basically, I want to ask about the PAINT. It has lost its lustre and is sort of a matte lemon yellow. No big deal, no scratches or anything.

It's been so long since I waxed a car, I can't remember if I ever waxed a car.

So I could use a refresher.


I know I could go to Walmart or some auto parts store and buy their car wax. Rub it on, let it dry, then come back with some white terry cloth towels and just give her some elbow grease.

But then I'd be outside sweating right now :)


I'd rather sit in the semi-air-conditioned office and ask you guys for advice.

How do you wax a car ?

[Terry853]

Youtube it. Your problem is solved..

[osoab]

Youtube it. Your problem is solved..

The Most Efficient Way to Wax a Car. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PycZtfns_U)

[Sparky]

Rub the wax on in a small circular motions, being careful not to lay it on too thick (because it will be more work to get off). Let it dry completely. Buff (rub off) in small circular motions with a dry cloth. Shake and turn the dry cloth periodically to get rid of the dried wax dust.

It's usually best to do in sections so that you can alternate between waxing and buffing, because it's tedious boring work. For example, wax the top, then wax the front, then buff the top, then wax a side, then buff the front, etc. This is also good in case you get interrupted, because at least you have some sections completely waxed and buffed.

I usually use the liquid/creamy Turtle Wax in a bottle because it applies easier. Some people prefer the creamy paste in a can.

[ImaCannin]

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=fULNUr0rvEc
Wax on wax off

[zap]

Buy a electric buffer :) and press the easy button.

[Horn]

Carnauba wax, wash first.

[Glass]

do it under shade if it's warm out so it doesn't dry too fast and become harder to buff off. I did a 3 part maguires process one time. It gave a really good longer lssting result. Didn't really need another wax for nearly 18 months. I didn't want to do it a second time being it took so long by hand and was only a daily driver. If I had an orbital buffer I would do it that way again no question. Just picked up a new set of wheels. This one has a lot more metal and its taller. I'd need a ladder for some parts.. Not looking like it's going to get that kind of treatment any time soon. ..although now I'm thinking I can stand in the back to get the high parts for now.

[Horn]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4zXem8SxkI

[Half Sense]

I've been using this electric insulator wax for years - the shit's awesome on cars. Goes on and off a lot easier than any car wax, the shine is awesome, and it really protects the paint. Rain practically explodes off the car.

http://www.autogeek.net/collinite-insulator-wax-845.html

http://www.amazon.com/Collinite-Liquid-Insulator-Wax-845/dp/B000JK2D06 (http://www.autogeek.net/collinite-insulator-wax-845.html)

[gunDriller]

Thanks for all the replies.

It looks like I sold the car, without a wax job.